Microchip or GPS: Which One is Better for Pet Tracking?

Pet tracking technology has evolved with various solutions. Among them, GPS trackers and microchips are particularly popular among pet owners. Understanding their different features can help pet owners make informed decisions. In this blog, we will probe into the benefits and drawbacks of microchips and GPS trackers and have a comprehensive contrast to them, giving you valuable insight to make a decision.

What is microchip and GPS tracking technology?

Microchip tracking relies on RFID (Radio Frequency Identification). A tiny chip goes under your pet’s skin between the shoulder blades. This chip stores a unique ID number in a simple circuit. When a scanner moves over the chip, it powers up and sends back this ID. The ID connects to your contact details in a national database. Simply put, it’s just a digital ID card.

GPS tracking works very differently. It uses satellites to pinpoint your pet’s exact location. A device on your pet’s collar contains several key parts: a GPS receiver, a cellular modem, and a battery. The GPS receiver talks to satellites to find its position. The modem then sends this location data through cell networks to central servers. The servers show you where your pet is through a phone app.

The benefits and drawbacks of GPS trackers in pet tracking

Unlike the microchip implanted in a pet’s body, the wearable tracker that applies modern technologies has various benefits and limitations. Here, we will delve into the practical advantages and potential disadvantages of GPS pet tracking.

Benefits of GPS trackers in pet tracking:

GPS locating and geofencing prevent escape

In the event of a pet escaping from the yard or slipping through an open door, owners can immediately initiate movement tracking. The real-time tracking capability dramatically enhances the likelihood of locating pets before they stray too far. GPS trackers display exact coordinates and movement directions, enabling owners to respond swiftly and effectively. This rapid response system has proven invaluable in countless pet recovery scenarios, often making the difference between a brief scare and a prolonged search.

Real-time Location updates monitor pet safety

Real-time GPS monitoring gives pet owners complete visibility of their pets’ activities. Through their smartphones, owners track exact locations, speeds, and movement patterns instantly. Each location update paints a clear picture of the pet’s behavior. Owners can spot unusual activities like sudden running or visits to strange areas. This constant watch helps prevent dangerous situations before they happen.

Safe zones created through geofencing add extra protection for pets. Owners set up virtual boundaries around safe areas like homes and parks. The system sends instant alerts when pets cross these boundaries. These alerts let owners act quickly if their pet wanders too far. The boundaries adjust for different times and activities, giving pets freedom while keeping them safe.

Historical data review and global tracking help retrieve lost pets

Historical data review offers powerful insights when searching for lost pets. GPS trackers store detailed records of your pet’s past movements and favorite spots. These records show common routes, regular stops, and preferred hiding places. When a pet goes missing, owners can check these patterns immediately. This data helps narrow down search areas and predict likely locations, making the search more focused and efficient.

Global tracking turns any lost pet situation into a manageable task. Modern GPS systems work across cities and countries without limits. Owners can track their pets’ exact location on a map in real time. The system provides turn-by-turn directions to reach the pet quickly. This worldwide coverage means distance no longer blocks pet recovery. Whether your pet is blocks away or miles apart, GPS tracking leads you straight to them.

Activity monitoring and device sharing offer greater pet care

The GPS trackers exert influence over locating, they also behave well in pet health monitoring. Activity monitoring through GPS trackers transforms how owners understand their pets’ daily routines. The device tracks exercise levels, movement routes, and overall movement patterns. This data helps owners identify unusual behaviors quickly.

On the other hand, device sharing enhances pet care by connecting multiple caregivers. Family members, dog walkers, and pet sitters can all access the tracking information. Everyone stays informed about the pet’s location and activity through a shared app. This creates a reliable care network for your pet.

Drawbacks of GPS trackers in pet tracking:

Battery life limitations

Battery Life Limitations present a significant concern in pet tracking. Most GPS devices require frequent charging, typically every 2-5 days depending on usage. This creates potential gaps in tracking coverage during charging periods or if the battery dies unexpectedly. In critical situations where a pet goes missing with a low battery, the tracking capability could be lost at the most crucial moment.

Size and comfort

The size of the tracker and the comfort of the collar can affect some pets, particularly smaller animals. While GPS technology continues to miniaturize, many trackers remain bulky or heavy for small cats or tiny dog breeds. This extra weight or size might cause discomfort, irritation, or behavioral changes in pets. Some animals may actively try to remove the device, potentially leading to loss or damage.

Signal interference and interruption

GPS trackers may struggle to maintain accurate signals in dense urban areas, inside buildings, underground areas, or in heavily forested regions. These blind spots can create misleading location data or complete tracking failures when pets enter these challenging environments. Besides, only by ensuring the tracker is well attached to the pet, can we pinpoint the right location of our pets. If your dog is stolen and shacked off the tracker outdoors, it is hard to locate them continuously.

Environment impact

Heavy rain, extreme temperatures, or rough physical contact may damage the device or impair its functionality. While many trackers are designed to be weather-resistant, prolonged exposure to harsh conditions can degrade their reliability.

Cost considerations

Beyond the initial device purchase, many GPS tracking systems require monthly subscription fees for cellular data connectivity. Additional costs might include replacement batteries, protective cases, or upgraded services. These ongoing expenses can make long-term pet tracking a significant financial commitment.

The benefits and drawbacks of microchips in pet tracking

Microchip tracking is a standard method for pet identification and recovery. Here’s a clear overview of their key benefits. The microchip tracking also faces certain limitations.

Benefits of microchips in pet tracking:

Permanent identification

Permanent identification means lifelong security. Unlike traditional ID tags or GPS devices, microchips remain with your pet forever once implanted. They work under the skin, safe from external damage or loss. This permanent solution means your pet carries their unique identification number throughout their entire life, regardless of collar loss or tag damage.

Quick recovery process

When someone finds your pet, any nearby vet can scan them. The scan reveals your pet’s unique ID number. This number connects to your contact information in the database. The finder then contacts you directly. This simple process works day or night, speeding up pet recovery.

One-Time cost and maintenance

You pay only once for the chip and its insertion. No monthly subscriptions, no renewal fees, and no replacement costs exist. This single payment covers the microchip’s entire lifespan. Compare this to GPS trackers or other devices that need regular replacement or subscription fees.

Universal Scanning

The microchip can be scanned widely, creating a widespread safety network for lost pets. Every veterinary clinic, animal shelter, and rescue organization owns a microchip scanner.  When  The good point lies in if someone finds a lost pet, scanning for a chip becomes the first step in identification.

Drawbacks of microchips in pet tracking:

Scanning dependence

Microchip scanning relies heavily on finders’ actions. This means your pet’s recovery depends on someone taking them to a scanning location. If finders don’t know about microchips, they might not seek scanning. This knowledge gap can prevent successful pet recovery. Moreover, if your pet is stolen or faces an accident, there is almost no possibility of finding it back as the microchip must be scanned by human beings.

Limited and passive location tracking

The microchip is not an intelligent device like a GPS tracker, leaving you waiting passively. Microchips can’t notify you when your pet goes missing. They can’t send signals or alerts about your pet’s location. You depend entirely on others to find, scan, and report your lost pet.

Microchip scanning failure

The chip might move from its original spot between the shoulder blades, making scanning difficult. Besides, some older scanners might miss newer chips. Some universal scanners might not read all chip types. This incompatibility can delay or prevent pet identification.

Microchip trackers excel in providing permanent, maintenance-free identification but lack active tracking capabilities. They serve best as a foundational safety measure, often complemented by other pet tracking methods for comprehensive protection.

A comprehensive contrast between microchip and GPS tracking

We combine the features of the microchip and GPS trackers and list the next contrast table.

Each system serves different needs. Microchips offer permanent identification, more important when the pet is lost. GPS devices track movement in real-time, playing a more important role in daily tracking. Microchips act as a backup plan, and GPS as an active guardian.

Conclusion

Both tracking systems serve essential but different roles in pet care. In daily pet tracking, GPS trackers exert an important influence. They enhance daily pet care by offering real-time location monitoring, activity tracking, and immediate alerts, giving owners peace of mind in their everyday lives. Microchips, though without real-time tracking capacity, excel in pet recovery situations with their permanent identification and universal scanning.

If you emphasize more pet’s daily safety and health, GPS trackers can be your first choice. A powerful pet tracker can bring your pet ultimate pet care with a small influence on the tracker’s potential concerns. Beardpet, a professional and accustomed pet electronic company, has upgraded its pet tracking devices. Our dog tracking collars V41 and V43 are robust with various smart features on the market with super-high quality. Contact us to learn more about them!